Bangkok: Reiterating that 13.2 million eligible individuals still remain in the state welfare card system, with clarity expected on June 11th. The Bhumjaithai Party spokesperson reiterated that 13.2 million eligible individuals still remain in the state welfare card system. He also indicated that a decision on reviewing the criteria for revoking tax deductions for supporting parents will be made on June 11.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Nan Boonyathida Somchai, Deputy Minister of Digital Economy and Society and spokesperson for the Bhumjaithai Party, gave an interview regarding the progress of the review of the criteria for the state welfare card. She stated that, as of now, none of the 13.2 million holders of the state welfare card have had their eligibility revoked; everyone remains in the system, contrary to the news reports.
Regarding the latest guidelines from the Ministry of Finance, some criteria need to be reconsidered. From the perspective of MPs from the Bhumjaithai Party, this project has been around for a long time and has been problematic for many years. Some people have the card, while others don't, and complaints have been received for years. Now, it's time for the Ministry of Finance to review the eligibility criteria to ensure the benefits reach truly the poor. Therefore, new guidelines are needed for this round of eligibility.
"Don't panic, these are just initial guidelines and no one has been disqualified yet."
Regarding the meeting on June 11th, the Committee on Public Welfare for the Grassroots Economy and Society will consider whether to add further criteria. Ms. Nan Boonyathida stated that the criteria will need further consideration, including the screening method. Concerning the news about identity verification through district offices or government agencies, the Ministry of Interior has announced that this service will be provided by having village heads, district officers, and district chiefs survey eligibility and verify identities, including those not previously in the state welfare card system, before being submitted for consideration by the Ministry of Finance. Furthermore, the Prime Minister's order to review the criteria for revoking the tax deduction for supporting parents under the state welfare card program will also be considered at the meeting on Thursday, June 11th.
Regarding whether the consideration will be based on a single issue, Ms. Nan Boonyathida stated that field surveys have begun, and it's not a matter of immediate confirmation after the survey. It must first go through village community meetings. Those who pass the screening process must meet the criteria; she emphasized that they must be genuinely poor. This matter falls under the responsibility of the Ministry of Interior.